Mount Vernon officials recognize unsung community members

4:49 PM,
Apr. 25, 2013

Mount Vernon City Councilwoman Roberta Apuzzo presented a proclamation of appreciation to Robert Cimmino Jr., coach of the Mount Vernon High School boys' basketball team, at City Hall in Wednesday. Bishop William Ewell and Mary Figueroa were also honored. (The Journal News/Ned P. Rauch)

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Some people - politicians, celebrities, philanthropists - gather civic awards like kids collect baseball cards: they've got stacks of them. But most folks go about their business with little public recognition, even if what they do is worthy of praise.

Three years ago, Mount Vernon's City Council started changing that. Four times a year, the council honors residents it describes as ordinary citizens who have accomplished extraordinary deeds.